A recent article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA 234(10), 2009) reports the results of an extensive literature search where the authors identified published reports regarding zoonotic pathogens. A zoonotic pathogen is a disease causing organism (pathogen) that can be transmitted from animals to man (zoonotic potential). It has been estimated that 64% of the more than 1400 recognized human pathogens are zoonotic, and that 73% of 177 emerging pathogens have originated in animals. Think SARS, swine and avian influenza viruses, and the new H1N1 influenza virus to name a few.
Sixty-six articles were considered relevant for review, forty-four of which looked at the prevalence of serum antibodies (a measure of the body’s immune response to foreign material) against certain zoonotic diseases in veterinarians as compared to control groups (people without a high level of animal exposure). Of these 44 studies it was found that 37 (84%) identified an increased risk of zoonotic pathogen infection among veterinarians. The article goes on to suggest that veterinarians could serve as biological sentinels for these pathogens, and could inadvertently spread them to their families and communities, as well as other animals for which they provide care.
It is interesting to note that the most recent issue of the Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine (JEPM 18(4), October 2009) is devoted to Parasites and discusses how the import of exotic species, particularly reptiles, runs the risk of bringing new parasitic diseases into the United States. Some of these parasites are most likely to be contagious to man and thus zoonotic. What can be done? Number one, more rigorous attention to hygiene in every day practice needs to be addressed by all veterinarians who tend to be lax in their use of personal protective equipment. As well, stricter controls by the United States government on exotic species imports, including more rigid quarantine and health assessments before these animals are released to the pet trade. Unfortunately, a great number of exotic species are illegally imported into this country and therefore receive no health assessment prior to entering the pet trade. Something to think about before your next visit to the local pet shop.
Peter G Fisher, DVM
